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Some frequently asked questions that other customers have asked us about Clew Straps.
What is a clew strap and what does it do?
A clew strap connects the clew of your sail to the boom, replacing the traditional bit of rope. It gives you a cleaner, lower-profile attachment that reduces wear on the sail, sits closer to the boom for better sail shape, and is quicker to rig and de-rig at the slipway. Most modern dinghy classes have moved over to clew straps for these reasons.
What size clew strap do I need for my dinghy?
Clew strap sizing depends on your boat class and the load it needs to handle. Smaller dinghies like the Optimist and Topper use lighter straps, while ILCA, RS, and 420 class boats need a stronger strap rated for higher loads. Always check your class rules, then match the strap's stated breaking load to the sail size and conditions you typically sail in. The size you need depends on the diameter of your boom.
How do I fit a clew strap to my sail?
The clew strap goes through the ring in the sail at the clew, under the boom, back through the clew strap metal loop and back to secure against the velcro.
How often should I replace a clew strap?
Inspect your clew strap at the start of each season and after any heavy use. Replace it if you see fraying, UV damage, stitching coming loose, or stiffness in the webbing. As a rough guide, club sailors get two to three seasons from a strap, while competitive racers often swap them annually to be safe. They are inexpensive compared to the cost of a torn sail.
